June Issue
Media distortion of the results of several high-profile studies of nutritional supplements has generated alarm and confusion in the public mind. Here we dig beneath the headlines to uncover why the media misread the study results and why it continues to mislead the public.
Reports
Mainstream Doctors Still Confused About Homocysteine
Two recent studies on homocysteine ignited a media frenzy of misinterpretation, leading many to question the benefit of lowering homocysteine. In fact, the findings actually confirm Life Extension’s position about the steps required to achieve optimal homocysteine control.
The Sunscreen Paradox: Popular Misconceptions About Skin Cancer Prevention
The FDA’s flawed SPF rating system rates sunscreens for protection against UV-B rays but not the deeperpenetrating UV-A rays that cause skin aging and cancer. Learn which sunscreen ingredients and topical agents offer optimal sun protection.
Superoxide DismutaseBoosting the Body’s Primary Antioxidant Defense
The enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) is one of the body’s foremost antioxidant defenses, reducing free radical damage associated with atherosclerosis, stroke, and arthritis. New bioavailable forms of SOD offer superior protection against oxygen free radicals.
Ashwagandha: Stress Reduction, Neural Protection, and a Lot More from an Ancient Herb
In scientific studies, the Indian herb ashwagandha has demonstrated stress-relieving effects comparable to those of prescription drugs. This remarkable herb also grows new nerve cells and inhibits the growth of human breast, lung, colon, and other cancer cells.
Departments
Dietary Supplements Attacked by the Media
In recent months, headline-hungry media outlets have run alarming front-page stories attacking the efficacy of popular nutritional supplements such as calcium, vitamin D, and glucosamine. A close look at the research fueling these sensational headlines reveals egregious study design flaws and financial conflicts of interest—problems that explain the studies’ negative results that were ignored by the mainstream media.
In The News
Supplements help elderly avert disease; chromium, B vitamins prevent weight gain; tea polyphenols may reduce ovarian cancer risk; resveratrol offers neuroprotective benefits; olive polyphenols protect blood vessels; elevated HDL protects against coronary events; and more.
Kaicho NakamuraStrength and TranquilityBy Philip Smith
Karate grandmaster Kaicho Nakamura embodies the martial tradition of the noble warrior, statesman, and scholar.